China Flights Update — 20 April 2026
flights • 20 April 2026
**Etihad Airways Announces Five New Routes from Abu Dhabi to Major Chinese Cities, Boosting Connectivity for Australian Travellers** Etihad Airways is launching five new direct routes from Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) to key Chinese destinations: Shanghai Pudong (PVG, 7 weekly flights from 1 October 2026), Guangzhou (CAN, 7 weekly from 4 March 2027), Hangzhou (HGH, 5 weekly from 4 March 2027), Shenzhen (SZX, 5 weekly from 7 March 2027), and Chengdu (TFU, 4 weekly from 5 March 2027). According to Etihad’s official announcement and reports from Emirates News Agency (WAM), this expansion adds 28 weekly flights, growing their mainland China network to 35 flights across six gateways, including existing daily services to Beijing Daxing (PKX). These routes strengthen Etihad’s joint venture with China Eastern Airlines, offering seamless connections via Abu Dhabi. For Australian travellers, these developments open efficient Middle East layover options to reach China’s vibrant east coast and interior hubs like Hangzhou—famous for its West Lake UNESCO site—and Chengdu, gateway to Sichuan’s panda reserves and spicy cuisine. With Abu Dhabi as a Qantas partner hub, flyers from Sydney, Melbourne or Perth can now plan smoother itineraries to these dynamic cities, enhancing access to business districts, cultural landmarks, and high-speed rail networks. Etihad Airways reports this as one of their largest single-market expansions, promising more choices for exploring China’s diverse attractions.Sources
- https://tvbrics.com/en/news/airline-from-uae-to-launch-28-new-weekly-flights-to-china-with-five-new-destinations/
- https://www.etihad.com/en/news/etihad-airways-expands-china-network-strengthens-china-eastern-joint-venture-with-five-new-routes-and-28-additional-weekly-flights
- https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/airports-networks/routes-insights-china-eastern-airlines-air-canada-eva-air
- https://connectingtravel.com/news/etihad-airways-to-launch-five-new-china-routes